The picture attached is typical of the results I am getting... this example is completely unedited apart from making it smaller for easier posting and converting from nef to jpg.. Obviously I can make it look roughly how it should with a bit of photoshop and cropping, but it seems to me as if the backdrop is illuminating everything just a bit too much ?? or maybe the fault is elsewhere ? I definitely have a lot to learn ...

I metered the background at f11 and the subject at f9 iso 100 125th sec The Hilite was lit with a single calumet 200w .. also Using one brolly flash beside the camera with calumet 200w

The setup was in my living room which is all I have and the ceiling is also white and at about 8ft ...

Apart from helpful and constructive criticism, I am also interested in hearing if anyone can recommend a decent studio lighting workshop/seminar in the london or kent area